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UDHAGAMANDALAM: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is focusing on the Astro-Sat project, a unique initiative which can help probe the universe from the orbit.

This satellite will be placed 600 kilometres above the Earth's surface. It will prove a powerful tool for space research since it can be pointed towards any object. The launch will take place next year, said Dr G Madhavan Nair, its chairperson.

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating the Space Science Exhibition at the CSI College of Engineering in Ketti here on Wednesday, he said that 'satellite killing' technology which the USA had recently adopted to destroy a satellite in the orbit was a commendable effort since it was carrying hazardous hydrazine. "A possible threat to the planet was averted by this move," Nair added.

He noted that a simultaneous twin-satellite launch was feasible and would be useful in fields like communication. During his address at the event earlier, Nair said, "India has become selfreliant in satellite technology and the nation plays a remarkable role in extending its benefits to the common man with applications in communications, remote sensing and meteorology."

He said that two European countries have placed orders with ISRO to build satellites since the technology matches up to global standards.

During his interaction with the audience, the ISRO chairperson said the country is on the verge of launching its first lunar probe. However, sending an Indian cosmonaut to the Moon would take 15 more years, he remarked.

On the removal of empty satellites in space, he said it has been proposed to push them up a few kilometers above their site of existence to make way for new satellites. In order to increase satellites' efficiency, the number of transponders will be raised to 500 in the Eleventh Five Year Plan.

On erecting a solar power station in space to tap solar energy, Nair said it remained a very expensive project as of now. Professor G Swarup, scientist, National Centre of Astro-Physics, Dr S J Jeyapaulan, principal of the college, also spoke.